Arts Umbrella is proud to announce the 2017 Expressions Theatre Festival, an annual event celebrating the next generation of gifted young artists from the organization’s Pre-Professional Theatre Program, running May 18 to 27, 2017, at Waterfront Theatre on Granville Island. From the witty satire of Urinetown: The Musical, to the playful compilation The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged), this year’s program offers an array of diverse and thought-provoking works, including the emotionally-charged world premiere Living In My Skin, a fearlessly student-written play about confronting teen anxiety.
The 2017 Expressions Theatre Festival Lineup includes:
Living In My Skin
May 18 & 26
The world premiere of this ensemble piece features a series of relevant, relatable and poignant scenes about the difficulties of dealing with teen anxiety. Intense emotions, peer pressure, insecurities, perfectionism, and worries about the future can conjure feelings of uncertainty and loneliness. Talking about anxiety is the first step toward healing, and the students behind this show hope to start the conversation.
Urinetown: The Musical
May 19 - 21, 23 - 25 & 27
In a Gotham-like city, a terrible water shortage caused by a 20-year drought has led to a government-enforced ban on private toilets. The citizens must use public amenities, regulated by a single malevolent company that profits by charging admission for one of humanity’s most basic needs. Amid the people, a hero decides that he has had enough and starts a revolution to lead them all to freedom.
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged)
May 18, 20 - 21 & 26
Witness all of Shakespeare’s 37 plays in one night! An irreverent, hilarious and fast-paced romp through the Bard’s catalogue. Join the Senior Theatre Troupe as they attempt the impossible – to barrel their way through all of Shakespeare’s Comedies, Histories and Tragedies in one wild ride.
Charlotte’s Web
May 20 & 21
The stage adaptation of the classic story about an irresistible young pig named Wilbur, his miraculous spider friend Charlotte, and her campaign to save Wilbur’s life. This sensitive, funny, and intelligent play about friendship will enchant audiences of all ages.
Theatre and Music Showcase, performed by Theatre Intensive Program students
May 27
One of the highlights of the season, the Theatre and Music Showcase reveals the polished and dynamic talent of the Theatre Intensive Program students through a kaleidoscope of short musical and theatre performances across a range of genres.
Arts Umbrella Expressions Theatre Festival
Date: Wednesday, May 18 to Saturday, May 27, 2017
Ticket prices: $10 - $20
Address: Waterfront Theatre, Granville Island 1412 Cartwright St. Vancouver, BC
Box Office: artsumbrella.com/expressionstheatre
Website: artsumbrella.com
Photo: Tim Matheson
